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A tiny Persian Gulf state of 33 natural islands, Bahrain punches above its weight when it comes to tourist attractions. While its capital, Manama, is ultra-modern on the surface, it boasts historical sites and cultural treasures rooted in the kingdom’s prehistoric civilizations and pearl-fishing heritage. While most of the best things to do in Bahrain involve its white-sand beaches and boat trips, other memorable experiences include visiting ancient forts, archaeological ruins, desert dunes, and old souks, and diving for pearls in UNESCO-protected oyster beds.
The best time for sightseeing and beach-lounging in Bahrain is November through April when the heat is less oppressive than during the baking-hot summers (May-October). The December-April period also heralds a busy events calendar thanks to warm and dry weather. Highlights include February’s Bahrain Food Festival and the Bahrain Grand Prix, which usually roars into action in March or April and brings hordes of motorsports-mad visitors.
Self-drive cars and rideshare apps such as Uber and Careem are probably the easiest way to get around the major cities of Manama, Riffa, and Muharraq, with cabs close behind—although the latter are scarcer and relatively pricey. Public buses are another option: affordable, frequent services ply the city and intercity routes if you fancy traveling like a local. Buy tickets on board or purchase and preload a GO Card with credit for quick and easy bus journeys.
Combine a visit to Manama Souk with a pitstop at Haji’s Cafe, a legend among locals for its old-school Arabic cuisine. Shoehorned into an alleyway between Government Avenue and Al Khalifa Avenue, this long-established cafe does a mean line in machboos—Bahrain’s favorite spiced meat and rice dish—together with mezzes, biryanis, and home-baked flatbreads. If it’s not too hot outside, aim for an open-air table, so you can people-watch while you eat.
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Yes, Bahrain is worth visiting. Along with near-guaranteed warm weather from November through April, this island state blends silky sand beaches with top-notch watersports, entertainment, and restaurants. You can also visit museums, archaeological relics, boat trips, desert safaris, and traditional souks; go on pearl-fishing adventures; and watch Formula 1 racing at the Bahrain International Circuit.
...MoreBahrain is known for its hot climate, oil wealth, ultra-modern cities, deserts, and beaches. It’s also famous for its past pearl-fishing trade, a heritage evident in its pearl-diving trips, restored merchants’ houses, and UNESCO-protected oyster beds. Another claim to fame is the Bahrain Grand Prix, a key fixture on the Formula 1 calendar.
...MoreThree days in Bahrain is enough to cover its highlights, such as visiting Manama’s Grand Mosque, Bahrain Fort, and National Museum, exploring old Muharraq’s pearl-trail sites, and experiencing souks, pearl-fishing trips, and the desert. A few more days, however, lets you hit the beach, go island-hopping, and delve deeper into local culture.
...MoreYes, Bahrain is relatively expensive to visit. Hotels are pricey, especially in peak season, and it’s easy to splurge on deluxe restaurants and activities. However, there are numerous ways to curb your spending—eat at local restaurants, use public buses, and enjoy the free museums, souks, and public beaches.
...MoreYes, you can drink alcohol in Bahrain. Alcohol can be purchased by non-Muslim adults at international hotels and licensed restaurants and bars—though it’s expensive. Be aware that drunken behavior in public or driving under the influence of alcohol are offenses punishable by severe fines or imprisonment.
...MoreYes, Bahrain is generally very safe for travelers, although there is a threat of terrorism, so stay vigilant. Crime is also rare, although pickpocketing and theft can sometimes occur, particularly around souks. Solo female travelers are considered quite safe, although you should avoid isolated areas at night.
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